Approximately 200 veterans and guests gathered at Alba in Norwell on Sept. 29 for the town’s 13th annual veterans luncheon, a tradition that began as a way to connect local veterans with the benefits and services available to them.
Norwell Veterans Officer Dave Osborne started the event in 2014 to meet local veterans, learn about their needs and make sure they were aware of available resources. Over the years, the luncheon has grown into a much-anticipated gathering, made possible by a generous donor who covers the cost of the event.
Veterans are treated to a full sit-down meal at Alba, featuring a private menu created exclusively for the occasion, with everything included.
Organizing the luncheon is a personal effort for Osborne, who begins reaching out to veterans about five weeks in advance. He attempts to call every veteran on Norwell’s roster, a process that can be challenging but helps him reconnect with residents who might otherwise be difficult to reach.
While the luncheon provides an opportunity for veterans to enjoy a meal together, Osborne said its greatest value is the personal connections it creates. He particularly enjoys spending time with older veterans, hearing how they are doing and identifying ways he can help.
What began as an outreach effort more than a decade ago has become an annual celebration of Norwell’s veterans and an opportunity to ensure those who served remain connected to their community.